Initial Application Processing Time

The first step in the SSD process is submitting your application. Once you’ve submitted your claim to the SSA, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months for them to process your application and make a decision on whether or not to approve it. The SSA will review your medical records, work history, and any other relevant information to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Factors That Can Affect Approval Time

The time it takes for your claim to be processed and approved can vary based on several factors:

• Medical Evidence: One of the biggest factors in the approval process is the completeness of your medical evidence. If you submit thorough documentation from your healthcare providers that clearly demonstrates the severity of your condition, this can speed up the review process.
• Work History and Earnings: The SSA will also review your work history to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria for SSDI or SSI benefits. If your earnings and work history are complicated, this could take longer to verify.
• The Complexity of Your Case: More complex cases or conditions that are harder to evaluate (such as mental health disorders or less common physical conditions) can take longer to process. In some cases, the SSA may require additional consultations or medical opinions.
• Backlog of Claims: The SSA processes millions of disability claims every year. Depending on the volume of claims they are handling at the time, it could take longer for your claim to be reviewed.

What Happens If Your Application Is Denied?

It’s not uncommon for Social Security Disability claims to be denied, especially during the initial application phase. In fact, about 60% of all initial SSDI claims are denied. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The process for appeals typically follows these steps:

• Reconsideration: After a denial, you can request a reconsideration, which is a second review of your case. This typically takes about 3 to 4 months.
• Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. This is where you present your case in person. The wait time for a hearing can be longer, often ranging from 12 to 18 months, depending on your location and the SSA’s caseload.
• Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask for a review from the Appeals Council. This process could take an additional 12 to 18 months.

Average Time to Receive a Decision

On average, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months for the SSA to process your initial claim. However, if you are denied and enter the appeals process, the overall time to receive a final decision can extend to 1 to 3 years, depending on the complexity of your case and how long you have to wait for hearings or reviews.

Expedited Processing Options

If your condition is particularly severe or if you meet certain criteria, you may be able to expedite your disability application. Here are a few options that could speed up the process:

• Compassionate Allowances: Certain medical conditions are considered so severe that the SSA will approve them quickly. These conditions, known as Compassionate Allowances, include conditions like advanced cancers or early-onset Alzheimer’s. If your condition qualifies, you could receive approval within a matter of weeks.
• Terminal Illness (TERI): If you are diagnosed with a terminal illness and your life expectancy is short, you may be eligible for expedited processing under the TERI program. This can result in a decision in a matter of days or weeks.
• Military Service Members: Veterans or active-duty military service members may be eligible for expedited processing of their SSDI claims, particularly if they were injured while serving.

How to Speed Up Your SSDI Application Process

While there is no guarantee that your claim will be processed quickly, there are several steps you can take to avoid delays and potentially speed up the process:

• Submit Complete and Accurate Documentation: Make sure all your medical records, work history, and financial details are complete and accurate before submitting your claim. Missing documents can significantly delay the process.
• Follow Up Regularly: Stay in contact with the SSA to track the progress of your claim and ensure they have all the necessary information.
• Consult a Disability Lawyer: Although you can apply for SSDI on your own, working with a lawyer who specializes in Social Security Disability can help ensure that your application is properly prepared, which may reduce the chances of delays or denials.